1707 William Adams Reystogt na Oost-Indien
By: Pieter van der Aa
Date: 1707 (Published) Leiden
Dimensions: 6 x 9 inches (15.24 cm x 22.9 cm)
This intriguing hand-colored authentic antique map by Dutch cartographer Pieter van der AA shows Japan, Korea, part of China and Terra de Iesso. The map is both scientifically informative (though mistakenly showing Korea as an island) and ornamental.
The captivatingly decorative title cartouche portrays Williams Adams paying homage to a shogun who is seated upon an extravagantly ornate throne under an equally extravagant baldachin supported by columns reminiscent of those supporting the baldachin at St. Peters. Adams was the pilot of the first Dutch ship to arrive in Japan, in 1600. He was subsequently taken into the service of the shogun, and lived out his days in Japan without ever having returned to the West. He died in Japan in 1620.
Japan is beautifully detailed. The sea of Japan is embellished by a small fleet of frigates, and dinghies full of sailors.
Condition: This map is in A condition. The impression is bold and clear.
Inventory #19397
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